Since its inception in 1950, a number of aristocrats have successfully raced in Formula One. Among them was Wolfgang von Trips, who drove for Ferrari and led the 1961 standings behind the wheel of the famous “sharknose” 156. Von Trips was actually set to become Germany’s first F1 world champion when he tragically died at Monza during the penultimate round of the season. After colliding with Jim Clarks’ Lotus, Von Trips’ Ferrari 156 flew off track and crashed, fatally injuring the championship leader as well as 14 spectators.

Pierre Van Vliet

Pierre Van Vliet is a respected and authoritative figure in F1 news circles and brings a wealth of information to F1i.com

Recent Posts

F1 drivers squeeze in tradition before Abu Dhabi epic

On the eve of Formula 1’s thrilling 2025 title decider in Abu Dhabi, the entire…

40 mins ago

Hamilton won't miss current F1 cars - but fears 2026 'might be worse'

As Formula 1 prepares to wave goodbye to its current rule set in Abu Dhabi,…

2 hours ago

F1 drivers rally around Antonelli after abuse from ‘scum of the earth’

On the eve of Formula 1’s season finale in Abu Dhabi, drivers set aside championship…

3 hours ago

Abu Dhabi GP: Thursday's media day in pictures

Formula 1's 2025 season hurtles toward its dramatic close this weekend in Yas Marina, with…

16 hours ago

Verstappen: Let McLaren play games – 'all that matters is the trophy'

In a title showdown charged with tension, numbers, and a hint of intra-team intrigue, Max…

17 hours ago

Leclerc says Ferrari early pivot to 2026 ‘a no-brainer’

Charles Leclerc isn’t sugarcoating Ferrari’s struggles this season – but he also isn’t second-guessing the…

18 hours ago